Israel Cycling Academy has confirmed the rumours that have been going around for weeks: It will take control of Katusha-Alpecin and take a step up to the WorldTour.

The Israeli team awaits for the approval of the UCI but has signed an agreement with Katusha Management to take over the team and the license and ride in the WorldTour in 2020. "I have stated for some time that Israel Cycling Academy would be in the WorldTour, sooner or later," said the team's co-owner Sylvan Adams. "I am excited that it is happening right away for next year's season."

The license will be renewed for three more seasons and the team will ride in its traditional blue and white uniforms provided by Katusha apparel under a new sponsorship agreement. This shows the fast growth of the team that was created as a Continental team just five years ago.

"We have several new riders, including some from the current Katusha team that will join, and I promise we will make some noise in lots of big races next year," said Adams. "We are just. Getting. Started."

Israel Cycling Academy's manager Kjell Carlstrom is pleased with the news. "The team has been growing each year in an organic way, both organizationally and also on the rider side, and we feel ready for this new challenge," he explained. "We have great chemistry on this team, and I am proud of what we accomplished together. Really excited for next year."